tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58732511033097876862024-03-14T04:46:18.170-04:00Out by TenA guide to family-friendly activites in Prince George's County, MDAimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.comBlogger143125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-78976411834127819502013-07-23T16:17:00.003-04:002013-07-23T16:17:49.441-04:00Celebrate National Carousel Day in Prince George's County!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1-jTNl51GxLoCpgDZ2VBUY5h2GWXJcFBPTdXGNuDeqmgUxbogsLCuzhKuDkZkeZ6qxHRQFosH4Ox5inj743ipvvBcoCeX4Oi5NIVC5QVAAHlRWzFuXvd-6cflDkfr0ZuHalI5UZ_GWac/s1600/image005.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1-jTNl51GxLoCpgDZ2VBUY5h2GWXJcFBPTdXGNuDeqmgUxbogsLCuzhKuDkZkeZ6qxHRQFosH4Ox5inj743ipvvBcoCeX4Oi5NIVC5QVAAHlRWzFuXvd-6cflDkfr0ZuHalI5UZ_GWac/s320/image005.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of National Harbor</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking the Potomac River at National Harbor<br /></td></tr>
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Did you know that Thursday, July 25, is <a href="http://www.carouselnews.com/component/option,com_jcalpro/Itemid,10001/extid,77/extmode,view/" target="_blank">National Carousel Day</a>? Aren't we lucky to have two awesome carousels to choose from here in Prince George's County, MD?!<br />
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National Harbor opened their new <a href="http://nationalharbor.com/things-to-do-in-dc/carousel/" target="_blank">carousel</a> and children's play area earlier this summer. We had a chance to visit on opening weekend and really loved it! It's so fun to ride the carousel and look out over the water.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwLaUhI1e3A5JZAYMw5EHv_zeJ-VFyHm8NqRZf8U7DkAL2VNiEINuMyKGwCDC0OS8CyQj8N1Xh5SSeQg6kNpmiveYHtvf6DG8wGKzWN6T4Sb8RYGQtnX3laPpOC_3RoOK8VjkzxceglS_/s1600/photo+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwLaUhI1e3A5JZAYMw5EHv_zeJ-VFyHm8NqRZf8U7DkAL2VNiEINuMyKGwCDC0OS8CyQj8N1Xh5SSeQg6kNpmiveYHtvf6DG8wGKzWN6T4Sb8RYGQtnX3laPpOC_3RoOK8VjkzxceglS_/s200/photo+(10).JPG" width="150" /></a>Starting at 10am on Thursday, National Carousel Day, National Harbor will have stilt walkers, face painting, balloon artists, unicyclists all along the water from the carousel to the Plaza. Plus, one of our favorite children's bands, <a href="http://nationalharbor.com/event/littletotsroundup/" target="_blank">Milkshake, will be performing</a>!<br />
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Carousel passes are usually $3 per ride or $5 all day, but on Thursday, you can ride all day for $3 with a purchase from a National Harbor retailer. (I hear Ben & Jerry's, CakeLove or the Peeps Store calling your name!!).<br />
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Our other favorite carousel in Prince George's County is the <a href="http://www.pgparks.com/Things_To_Do/Nature/Watkins_Regional_Park/Watkins_Antique_Carousel__Train___Miniature_Golf.htm?" target="_blank">Chesapeake Carousel</a> at Watkin's Park. It's $1.50 per person per ride.<br />
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Happy National Carousel Day in Prince George's County!<br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-37452015614729648142012-12-18T21:54:00.003-05:002012-12-18T21:59:06.677-05:00ICE! and Christmas on the Potomac<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Filling up on Ogre pops and Ogre milk with other bloggers and their families before getting started!</div>
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Have you been to <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/ice-experience/index.html?intcmp=gn=pl=cnav-cid-DW" target="_blank">ICE!</a> yet? Thanks to this little 'ole blog, our family had the incredible opportunity to attend for free this year and we had a BLAST! In past years we've participated in different aspects of <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/index.html" target="_blank">Christmas on the Potomac</a>, but we hadn't ever been to ICE! Now that we have experienced ICE! I can promise it won't be our last time!</div>
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It's not too late for you to make <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/index.html" target="_blank">Christmas on the Potomac</a> a new family tradition, too! It continues through January 6! </div>
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As you may have heard, it's really, really cold inside ICE! -- 9 degrees to be exact. We bundled up in our warmest clothes and happily donned the bright blue loaner parkas but were still just a bit chilly. Actually, Abel passed on the parka touting the cold rating of his winter coat. Um, he regretted that decision!</div>
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The sculptures themselves were truly incredible. The kids (as a 6 and 2yo are wont to do) were trying to race to the next thing and so I had to keep up with them, but I could have lingered a lot longer to really take in and appreciate the sculptures. In fact, I recommended ICE! to friends with an 18mo but suggested they get a sitter and make it a date night. </div>
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Nathaniel LOVES Puss in Boots so this was his favorite! I mean look at those details -- incredible, right?</div>
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We all gave the ice slides a go. I, however, was really, really bad at it! I guess I assumed since it was ice I'd slide right down and so I didn't really get my legs up in the air (as instructed!) so I kind of scooted down. Abel got a good laugh at that one!</div>
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By the last room, the boys were cold and ready to be done. But I could have spent a lot of time here. This nativity scene was truly breath taking!<br />
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One of my favorite parts of the Gaylord is just being at National Harbor. After ICE! we (literally in this case!) rolled around the grounds for a bit!<br />
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Then we went back inside, met Gingy and <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/about-christmas-on-the-potomac/gingerbread-decorating-with-gingy.html" target="_blank">decorated a gingerbread train</a>!<br />
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Then rolled around a little more!</div>
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By then Nathaniel was pooped. Plus, he's kind of terrified of costumed people (including Santa!) so Lucas and I had some bonding time with the <a href="https://www.gaylordnationaltickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=F8AD128F-E649-45EF-B728-269624F0C5F6" target="_blank">character meet and greet</a>. Lucas is just the perfect age for this -- his smile got bigger and bigger with each character!</div>
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ICE! -- definitely a new holiday tradition for our family!</div>
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<em>I was provided free tickets for my family to attend these events but all opinions are my own! ICE! and Christmas on the Potomac are open until January 6, 2013.</em></div>
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-29585855392233484852012-11-21T10:55:00.002-05:002012-11-21T10:55:44.503-05:00Where to Buy Local this Holiday Season<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XKDTBWEhqB1XASXhEWwECgK7NfacmpJdPb-eLrZn2E71kPJ_HPa8xgxaPrtVXQqAaFAg5aQESLhOlAxyryK4yrtAF-7YEGUdLtnDFozX5jFyD7LgehW5r8LON9qa6hGKKLKf5KxlMLEz/s1600/ss_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2XKDTBWEhqB1XASXhEWwECgK7NfacmpJdPb-eLrZn2E71kPJ_HPa8xgxaPrtVXQqAaFAg5aQESLhOlAxyryK4yrtAF-7YEGUdLtnDFozX5jFyD7LgehW5r8LON9qa6hGKKLKf5KxlMLEz/s320/ss_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illustration by Ray Vella <a href="http://images.businessweek.com/ss/09/02/0227_buy_local/1.htm" target="_blank">via</a> </td></tr>
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Are you thinking of buying local this holiday season? Here are three awesome opportunities to support local Prince George's County enterprises!<br />
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<span class="userContent"><a href="http://www.communityforklift.com/" target="_blank">Community Forklift</a> </span><br />
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Community Forklift is celebrating <a href="http://communityforkliftthriftstore.wordpress.com/2012/11/20/green-friday-and-small-business-saturday-storewide-sale-free-workshops-hot-cider-and-cookies/" target="_blank">Green Friday and Small Business Saturday</a> with a store wide sale, free workshops, hot cider and cookies! November 23-25all regularly-priced items at the Forklift and in the Salvage Arts Department are 20% off!! What a perfect opportunity to find something special for that impossible-to-buy for person on your list! Or, purchase what you need to make your dreams of a DYI Holiday come true!<br />
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<a href="http://www.franklinsbrewery.com/" target="_blank">Franklin's Restaurant Brewery and General Store</a><br />
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<span class="userContent">Franklin's is celebrating Small Business Saturday and their 20th Anniversary on Saturday, November 24 by having a Sooper Dooper Saturday Sale
and Celebration. EVERYTHING in the General Store will be 20% off from 10am until 10pm. This is one of our absolute favorite places to find cool and unique gifts for everyone on our list!</span><br />
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<span class="userContent"><a href="http://www.cheverlycommunitymarket.com/" target="_blank">Cheverly Community Market</a> </span><br />
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<span class="userContent">The Cheverly Community Market will host an extra-special Holiday Market on Saturday, December 8 from 9am until 1pm. Their <a href="http://www.cheverlycommunitymarket.blogspot.com/2012/11/join-us-for-thanksgiving-market-this.html" target="_blank">Thanksgiving Market</a> was jam packed with incredible local vendors and artisans and the Holiday Market is sure to be even better. What a great opportunity to talk with and meet the farmers, producers, bakers and artists behind special gifts for your loved ones.</span><br />
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<span class="userContent"><i>How, when and where are you buying local this holiday season?</i></span><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-34651579866687272432012-07-24T07:42:00.000-04:002012-07-24T11:44:03.162-04:00Dreaming of Christmas on the PotomacOn Saturday we got a little reprieve from the heat with temps in the 70s but I still shook my head at the women I saw wearing jeans and sweaters. What? Did they think it was winter?<br />
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But then I stepped into my own winter wonderland at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center at National Harbor when I was lucky enough to get a sneak preview of <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/index.html#" target="_blank">Christmas on the Potomac 2012</a>!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBg9r4x4o9RXF8PYfkDMBinIKxvCmvrR_OHkbi5M1sqbVPLRL_oI4Ncn5vlrm_nIwkhM6iOz2APY4bdyKXw7DDYqUAhGRi37gB9-H8aXemgSpONeojBiUswJcnFmVgF-GTJe4u6AD2aT4/s1600/photo(23).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhBg9r4x4o9RXF8PYfkDMBinIKxvCmvrR_OHkbi5M1sqbVPLRL_oI4Ncn5vlrm_nIwkhM6iOz2APY4bdyKXw7DDYqUAhGRi37gB9-H8aXemgSpONeojBiUswJcnFmVgF-GTJe4u6AD2aT4/s320/photo(23).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a small part of the Winter Wonderland the folks at Gaylord created for us!</td></tr>
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We're longtime fans of <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/index.html#" target="_blank">Christmas on the Potomac</a>. Three years ago, we visited for the indoor snowfall, light display and train. Last year, I took Lucas on a special daytime "date" to meet and greet the DreamWorks' characters and do a scavenger hunt.<br />
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But this year I definitely want to do it up big and go to <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/ice-experience/index.html?intcmp=gn=pl=cnav-cid-DW" target="_blank">ICE! <i>Shrek the Halls</i></a>. I've heard so many reports from friends about how awesome it is and this year they're doing it even bigger and even better. This year's theme <i>Shrek the Halls</i> (who doesn't love that adorable ogre?) will be constructed of 2 MILLION pounds of ice.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/C62YW4JeVyM" width="560"></iframe><br />
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Not to mention, beyond ICE! they're bringing back all the incredible Christmas decor, train, gingerbread decorating, fountain show, indoor snow (for real! It's magical!!) and more.<br />
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And as easy as it is for us to get to National Harbor, I'll tell you what I'm really dreaming about: enjoying the <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/packages/index.html" target="_blank">hotel package</a> as a special get-away for the four of us. (Yeah, I'll keep on dreaming that dream....who knows, maybe it will come true someday!!!!)<br />
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I know it's hard to start thinking about Christmas when you've just started your back to school shopping, but for you planners or bargain-hunters, there's a great deal going on right now. Tickets for ICE! are already on sale and there are great <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/tickets/index.html" target="_blank">early bird specials</a> going on. Won't it be nice, come December, to have one thing checked off your list already?<br />
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And the awesome thing for us locals is that we can so easily visit during a non-peak date -- missing out on the massive crowds and getting an <a href="http://www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-national/christmas-on-the-potomac/tickets/index.html" target="_blank">awesome discount</a>!<br />
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Okay, now I'm off to keep on dreaming about all that ice...maybe it will cool me down today!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: I was invited to a special sneak-preview of Christmas on the Potomac and enjoyed a winter wonderland and yummy treats plus two gingerbread-making kids for my kids. However, I was not required to blog about it and was not compensated in any way. All opinions are my own. </i><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-87134478076026610392012-07-20T13:10:00.001-04:002012-07-20T13:10:54.554-04:00How to Train Your DragonAs you know, my family and I were offered free tickets to attend the <a href="http://www.outbyten.blogspot.com/2012/06/dreamworks-how-to-train-your-dragon.html" target="_blank">How to Train Your Dragon LIVE! Spectacular</a> at the Verizon Center last night. Unfortunately, due to a family emergency, my boys are out of town so we couldn't go. (Trust me, I was SO tempted to go alone but I would have felt terrible enjoying the show without Lucas and Nathaniel.) Instead I sat at home reading all the amazing tweets from my friends who were there.<br />
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My discount code (MOM) still works so if you're on the fence you can still buy tickets!<br />
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Here are what a few of my other blogger friends have to say about the incredible show:<br />
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<a href="http://www.imnotthenanny.com/2012/07/review-how-to-train-your-dragon-live.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ImNotTheNanny+%28I%27m+Not+the+Nanny%29&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">Thien-Kim</a> at I'm Not the Nanny says you'll love it even if you haven't seen the movie. (KIM! It's a fantastic movie -- rent it today!!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.google.com/reader/view/?hl=en&tab=my#stream/feed%2Fhttp%3A%2F%2Fnoteverstill.blogspot.com%2Ffeeds%2Fposts%2Fdefault" target="_blank">Robin</a> at The Not-Ever-Still Life enjoyed it because she's a "visual cataloger."<br />
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If you go, let me know. I'd love to hear about your experience!<i> </i><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-59455637635005463072012-06-26T15:32:00.001-04:002012-06-26T15:32:06.380-04:00Dreamworks' How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular + Discount Code<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqg_O_KmC-sLqthCWSpBKFGjI9dz3zQXIeUFY9XEOGGzzs3IElWbH-Eu0uwad_TisTRcjf1wWyzhQJM8lKCuiREmVn1jq30x9egblcpddOItLSxLZ7ZzK6s0IMqIt04jXzR29eZHFT3wa/s1600/key+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqg_O_KmC-sLqthCWSpBKFGjI9dz3zQXIeUFY9XEOGGzzs3IElWbH-Eu0uwad_TisTRcjf1wWyzhQJM8lKCuiREmVn1jq30x9egblcpddOItLSxLZ7ZzK6s0IMqIt04jXzR29eZHFT3wa/s1600/key+art.jpg" /></a></div>
Two things:<br />
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1. We are huge fans of the Dreamworks movie How to Train Your Dragon. Six year old Lucas loves the movie and, quite frankly, so do I!<br />
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2. I was really disappointed that I didn't learn about Walking with Dinosaurs until it had already left DC.<br />
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So when I heard that <a href="http://dreamworksdragonslive.com/" target="_blank">How to Train Your Dragon Live Spectacular</a> was coming and that it was even bigger and better than Walking with Dinosaurs, I knew we had to get tickets.<br /><br /><i>Disclosure: I was offered free tickets for my family to attend this special event. But all opinions are 100% my own. And I'll definitely write an unbiased review after the show for you, too!</i> <br />
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Eeeeeeek! I am so excited! We'll be going on Thursday, July 19 (join us!) and the show will be in DC through the 22nd at the Verizon Center. (It's also playing across the country through February.)<br />
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I have to admit that I have trouble conceptualizing big things -- like suspension bridges and skyscrapers -- and after reading this description, I'm having a little bit of trouble conceptualizing this show<i>....</i><br />
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<i>HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON LIVE SPECTACULAR breaks every rule of
theatrical entertainment to fully immerse audiences into the show in
ways that have not been attempted before. Barely contained within the
arena, HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON LIVE SPECTACULAR utilizes the full
venue, maximizing every dimension of the performance space to transport
audiences into a mythical world of fire-breathing dragons who soar
overhead at great speeds. The state-of-the-art animatronic technology
and large-scale cinematic projections interact seamlessly with the live
actors, who bring DreamWorks Animation’s heart-warming story to life
through theatrical storytelling, martial arts and acrobatics. It's not
to be missed!</i><br />
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Can you imagine it? I mean the Verizon Center is BIG. Really big. Even though I can't quite grasp it--or maybe <i>because</i> I can't quite grasp it--I can't wait for it! I haven't told Lucas yet, but when I do, that boy is going to lose. his. mind.<br />
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So here's the thing, regular ticket prices range from a low of $29.50 to
a high of $69.50 (excluding fees). A limited number of premium seats
and special VIP ticket experiences and family packages are also
available.<span> </span><a href="http://dreamworksdragonslive.com/tickets.php" target="_blank">Click here</a> to purchase tickets, for show times and much more. <a href="http://cidentertainment.com/dragonslivevip/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for details on how to meet the dragons as well as other VIP opportunities!<b><span> </span></b><br />
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<b style="color: black;">BUT here's the even better thing: Not only did the lovely folks putting on this little (haha!) show offer me free tickets, they're offering my readers 25% off tickets for all weekday performances -- even Friday night! Just enter the code MOM in the promo box which says "MOMMY BLOG."<span> Note: this code is actually good for tickets for any location across the country (so save this post if your location isn't on sale yet!).</span></b><br />
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I'm just going to leave you with one more little fun fact: Toothless (we all adore Toothless, right?) weighs over 7,500 pounds and flies over 1.2 miles throughout
the performance. Um, that's equivalent to a Range Rover soaring through the
arena. Wow!<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-359885162324322702012-06-18T08:00:00.000-04:002012-06-19T10:13:54.515-04:00Now on Facebook!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXTEty5WjKNu3-b4RMkV9YVPJDTJ0O12DRaMGe9uiNclUZMbIFZnOKCHI7gzLfVErc7lc6FB5Axx071QZUZ9vQyD8YUjKe4-bXYumF492EUcN244x5D3ntQoNjxTZ_Zwj1sd6O_R4SsXE/s1600/FFPG.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXTEty5WjKNu3-b4RMkV9YVPJDTJ0O12DRaMGe9uiNclUZMbIFZnOKCHI7gzLfVErc7lc6FB5Axx071QZUZ9vQyD8YUjKe4-bXYumF492EUcN244x5D3ntQoNjxTZ_Zwj1sd6O_R4SsXE/s1600/FFPG.png" /></a></div>
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I'm so happy to announce that you can get the best of Out by Ten (and much, much more!) now on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Family-Friendly-Prince-Georges/268220706539663" target="_blank">Facebook</a>! I'm calling the new page "Family Friendly Prince George's" because that's really what we're all about here at Out by Ten.<br />
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I'm now a full-time work-outside-the-home mom and while we're still going on TONS of family adventures, making time for the adventures (verses making time for writing about them!) has taken priority in my life right now.<br />
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But have no fear! Our new Facebook page is a great resource for all the wonderful family-friendly stuff happening in Prince George's County and the greater Metro DC area. Be sure to check out the Out by Ten archives (see those handy categories over there ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>>>) for lots of great ideas.<br />
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Please <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Family-Friendly-Prince-Georges/268220706539663" target="_blank">head on over</a> to our Facebook page and give me a great big "like!"<br />
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I'll see you on your wall soon!<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-52947284300480732262012-05-04T15:54:00.000-04:002012-05-04T15:54:06.834-04:00Free Comic Book Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bHHo78Ma2mVqo6xSHcelBOZaGEtjwWtBuIQVh4alhdRKFBfSrwIRKo629kqfgS1rYDzzWDPmNCXrwDtrrQHSA2OXrw-JBTWN7P5dCWRTiK4WzQrA3QyL-8xi5ptGf1UMdynrwTnQwO6S/s1600/2857.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bHHo78Ma2mVqo6xSHcelBOZaGEtjwWtBuIQVh4alhdRKFBfSrwIRKo629kqfgS1rYDzzWDPmNCXrwDtrrQHSA2OXrw-JBTWN7P5dCWRTiK4WzQrA3QyL-8xi5ptGf1UMdynrwTnQwO6S/s1600/2857.gif" /></a></div>
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I had never read a comic book in my life until my husband stopped by <a href="http://www.bigplanetcomics.com/" target="_blank">Big Planet Comics</a> in College Park, MD, about two years ago. If I recall, he was looking for the new comic his friend illustrated, but instead he came home with a stack of comic books that were perfect for then four-year-old Lucas.<br /><br />
Friends, it was amazing. Our little ball of energy who NEVER had even one minute to sit and page through a book on his own was suddenly sitting for 10-15 minute stretches pouring over his new comic books.<br />
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Wow!<br />
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Since then I have definitely read my share of comics as bed time stories!<br />
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And tomorrow, May 5, is <a href="http://www.freecomicbookday.com/Home/1/1/27/992" target="_blank">Free Comic Book Day</a>! Yes, comic book stores across the country, including our favorite, Big Planet Comics, will be giving away free comics to anyone who stops by the store!<br />
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But! Wait! There's more!<br />
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Capitalizing on the timing of the release of the Avengers movie and Free Comic Book day, Disney is offering a <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/disney-comics/id422295758?mt=8" target="_blank">free comics app</a>! The app is free but several comics are for purchase. But there are lots of free comics under the DigiFree section! I just downloaded it, which unfortunately means Lucas will be trying to steal my phone even more than ever!<br />
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Are you as clueless about comics as I was a few years ago? <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/life/comics/story/2012-05-03/Free-Comic-Book-Day-2012/54732800/1" target="_blank">Here's a great article</a> that recommends comics based on books or shows your kids (or you!) already enjoy.<br />
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Happy Free Comic Book Day!<br /><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-54855215784808400412012-05-02T07:00:00.000-04:002012-05-02T07:00:00.804-04:00Truck Touch is Coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHAA9XOCQlRTdY0HNm3ExcOhjqGHe2MXuI4-_3PnJ8aPpVT2Am3fX_iNHvGg9A0pio-olfir3BrPPvRbX6UBCeOhs7z7rZb26PfV3dMWmzqCpNdmZHPLNtgUFQuosOKQOEOBttYGlP207/s1600/TT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHAA9XOCQlRTdY0HNm3ExcOhjqGHe2MXuI4-_3PnJ8aPpVT2Am3fX_iNHvGg9A0pio-olfir3BrPPvRbX6UBCeOhs7z7rZb26PfV3dMWmzqCpNdmZHPLNtgUFQuosOKQOEOBttYGlP207/s640/TT.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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Truck Touch is one of our favorite days of the year! Nathaniel is currently obsessed with trucks of all shapes and sizes. On Saturday his mind is going to be blown!!!<br />
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Hope to see you there!<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-50489423681295346442012-03-29T10:42:00.000-04:002012-03-29T10:42:57.767-04:00PBS KIDS is encouraging kids to Explore the Outdoors!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0a9T1SBhMHJwnsa1oAJGnm3yM2qkruZ7n6Lsd-LF-4RW_EXmczky38ffOyzldYxU97rKv4ap3PC_atp9G9GKtN3bo0jj3DMDBXg36-dzqkvJlXbSAjSwhj4p6W8Bxw0BdNkyOUh6kwRw/s1600/mag-wildkratts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0a9T1SBhMHJwnsa1oAJGnm3yM2qkruZ7n6Lsd-LF-4RW_EXmczky38ffOyzldYxU97rKv4ap3PC_atp9G9GKtN3bo0jj3DMDBXg36-dzqkvJlXbSAjSwhj4p6W8Bxw0BdNkyOUh6kwRw/s320/mag-wildkratts.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The two things my boys love most in the world are playing outside and watching TV so when I heard that PBS KIDS was partnering with the <a href="http://www.nrpa.org/" target="_blank">National Recreation and Parks Association</a> (of which my dad is a 30+ year member!) I was intrigued to learn more.</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Through April 20, PBS will present four weeks of themed on-air programming and online content designed to inspire kids and families to get outside and discover nature. Locally, National Recreation and Park Association member parks, along with local PBS member stations, will be hosting events where kids are invited to experience the environment with fun and educational activities from PBS KIDS. </span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">I feel pretty lucky to have a retired park ranger and recreation director for a dad and some of my best childhood memories are being outside with my family. My dad was constantly pointing out hawks, trees, snakes, plants (hello poison ivy!) and one time we encountered a super-cool beaver dam!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">And I'm grateful that both our boys love being outside, too. All they need is a stick and some dirt or mud and they'll happily get filthy and entertain themselves for a long time!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">As happy as they are to be outside, though, I'd be lying if I didn't mention how much my boys LOVE watching TV! PBS KIDS is our go-to station and so it's great to know that there will be shows encouraging them to actually turn off the TV and get outside to explore! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here are the details:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Explore the Outdoors Programming</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">Leading up to Earth Day, PBS KIDS will present four weeks of “Explore the Outdoors” themed programming from popular series including <a href="http://pbskids.org/wildkratts/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">WILD KRATTS</span></a>, <a href="http://pbskids.org/dinosaurtrain/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">DINOSAUR TRAIN</span></a>, <a href="http://pbskids.org/catinthehat/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">THE CAT IN THE HAT KNOWS A LOT ABOUT THAT!</span></a>, and <a href="http://pbskids.org/curiousgeorge/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">CURIOUS GEORGE</span></a><u><span style="color: blue;">. </span></u>Premieres include new episodes from WILD KRATTS, THE CAT IN THE HAT KNOWS A LOT ABOUT THAT!, CURIOUS GEORGE and a new Earth Day themed episode of <a href="http://pbskids.org/arthur/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">ARTHUR</span></a>, airing Monday, April 16. On Friday, April 20 (the Friday before Earth Day), PBS will also present a special line-up of environmentally-themed programs to gear kids up to celebrate Earth Day. Themed weeks include:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b>WILD KRATTS “Backyard Adventures Week” - March 26-30</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">This special week features five episodes all about venturing outside to explore the wonders that are as close as your own backyard. The week concludes with the premiere of a new episode, “Flight of the Pollinators,” on Friday, March 30, which explores the amazing delivery system of plants and their animal partners.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.25in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b>DINOSAUR TRAIN “Nature Trackers Week” - April 2-6</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">This encore presentation of four “Nature Trackers” episodes of DINOSAUR TRAIN includes “Stargazing on the Night Train/Get Into Nature!,” “Shiny and Snakes/Tiny Flowers,” “Buddy Explores the Tyrannosaurs/Rainy Day Fight” and “That’s Not a Dinosaur/Tiny’s Garden.” The storylines follow Buddy, Shiny, Tiny and Don as they make their own discoveries in nature. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">The episodes encourage kids to get outside, get into nature and make their own discoveries.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.25in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b>THE CAT IN THE HAT KNOWS A LOT ABOUT THAT! “Nature’s Know-How Week” - April 9-13</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">The Cat, Nick and Sally go on a variety of outdoor adventures this week, including journeys to Drippety Dry Desert and Splishy Splashy Pond. Two new episodes premiere: “Super Cleaner Uppers/Itty Bitty Water” on Monday, April 9, and “Amazing Eyes/Water Walkers” on Thursday, April 12.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b>CURIOUS GEORGE “Explore Your World Week” - April 16-20</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">During this special week, everyone’s favorite monkey dabbles in a range of activities – from radio DJ-ing, to painting, to building a home for a squirrel. The week includes three premiere episodes – “DJ George/Curious George Paints the Desert” on Monday, April 16, “No Knowing Gnocchi/Here Comes the Tide” on Wednesday, April 18, and a special Earth Day episode, “Junky Monkey/Jumpy Warms Up,” on Friday, April 20.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Online and Mobile Resources for Families</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <b><u><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br />
</span></u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;">Kids can continue their environmental exploration online at <a href="http://www.pbskids.org/outdoors" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">PBSKIDS.org/outdoors</span></a> to find environmental and outdoor themed games, activities and videos and on mobile through the <a href="http://pbskids.org/mobile/pbs-kids-video.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">PBS KIDS Video App</span></a> for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.pbs.org/parents/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">PBS Parents</span></a> will provide resources for parents to explore the outdoors with their own families on <a href="http://www.pbsparents.org/outdoors" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">PBSParents.org/outdoors</span></a>. The site will provide activities from the on-air episodes, listings for PBS KIDS Day in the Park events, and ideas and resources that families can use to explore the outdoors any time. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I was not compensated in any way for this post. We're just big fans of PBS KIDS and the National Recreation and Parks Society in our family so I am happy to pass along this great info!</i></span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-44818744951487793572011-11-08T07:00:00.003-05:002011-11-08T10:27:58.403-05:00See the Notre Dame Marching Band on Friday, November 11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXItbesQMutr8zrMbfsVKQzRKOHebYjpK3-FFqeJsP4pwBOep3xifbnGlURS6l_fGagILOUIbVYK5Kql4f8WSYe9bKFizMq9iOpgpYxagnhWOC3O7oceSIvu4pkoyRk85c5T9END0r-QJ1/s1600/243x133-images-stories-notre-dame-marching-band-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXItbesQMutr8zrMbfsVKQzRKOHebYjpK3-FFqeJsP4pwBOep3xifbnGlURS6l_fGagILOUIbVYK5Kql4f8WSYe9bKFizMq9iOpgpYxagnhWOC3O7oceSIvu4pkoyRk85c5T9END0r-QJ1/s1600/243x133-images-stories-notre-dame-marching-band-.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Notre Dame is traveling to Maryland to take on the Terps on Saturday, November 12, at FedEx Field. Their redound marching band, Band of the Fighting Irish, is making the trek as well and they'll be practicing at Bishop McNamara High School's Tyoka Jackson Field on Friday, November 11th from 10:15 AM to 11:45 AM. This is an open, full dress rehearsal and it is free and open to the public!<br />
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This is a great opportunity for Notre Dame fans, musicians or burgeoning musicians to see one of the best college marching bands in the nation* perform up close and personal!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bmhs.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1168:notre-dame-marching-band-open-rehearsal-on-bmhs-field-nov-12th&catid=45:finearts&Itemid=196">Bishop McNamara High School</a><br />
6800 Marlboro Pike<br />
Forestville, MD 20747<i> </i><br />
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*Not to be confused with <i>the best</i> college marching bands in the nation, OSU's The Best Damn Band In The Land and <strike>Penn State's The Blue Band</strike>. (Ugh. I wrote this prior to the scandal coming to light and can't even stomach promoting the school's band right now.)<i> </i><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-79628041122796141782011-10-19T14:50:00.000-04:002011-10-19T14:50:28.084-04:00Jump Off! this weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5bYXW8qVuLOQDiEn9_hJGS5LEUemX-ltUb8U0QzHeJBVfVFvY2MPJzwq8KtMyTf5eTNJ1jnH-ozcmS-qnPS9KphHzhAR3O2u1TgpFvt1xml74KVfQ8HzXlGqoxXSbhUASOecRjnTmTCQ/s1600/MP900422861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5bYXW8qVuLOQDiEn9_hJGS5LEUemX-ltUb8U0QzHeJBVfVFvY2MPJzwq8KtMyTf5eTNJ1jnH-ozcmS-qnPS9KphHzhAR3O2u1TgpFvt1xml74KVfQ8HzXlGqoxXSbhUASOecRjnTmTCQ/s320/MP900422861.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />
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Regular readers of this blog won't be surprised to know that my two absolute most favorite places for children in Prince George's County are <a href="http://outbyten.blogspot.com/2009/07/watkins-regional-park.html">Watkins Park</a> and the <a href="http://outbyten.blogspot.com/2009/05/national-harbor.html">National Children's Museum Launch Zone</a>.<br />
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So can you imagine my excitement that the Launch Zone is hosting an event at Watkins Park?! It doesn't get any better than that, my friends!<br />
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Here is the scoop!<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in;"> <b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">The National Children's Museum will present the fourth annual <a href="http://www.ncm.museum/home/news/jump-off-2011"><i>Jump Off!</i></a> at Watkins Regional Park on October 22, from noon until 4pm. This event is designed to inspire children to be physically active while having fun. <br />
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The afternoon will feature <b>free, outdoor</b> exhibition performances by nationally renowned Double Dutch jump rope teams along with numerous family friendly activities. Highlights include:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Stellar performances and workshops by <i>Jump Off!</i> veterans the Greenbelt S.I.T.Y. (Sensational, Inspiring, Talented, Youthful) Stars, Kangaroo Kids, and Youth Sports Jump Rope FX;<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Special guest appearances by The Washington Mystics representatives, with an inflatable basketball challenge, and the WPGC 95.5 street team (1-2 p.m.) who will provide music and live entertainment, as well as giveaways and promos;<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span>·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Frisbee decorating (while supplies last) and parachute play with NCM staff.<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">In addition, the Museum is welcoming six community exhibitors to <i>Jump Off! </i>Community exhibitors include:</span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, bringing coloring books and handouts;</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">RJ Smiles Inc., providing arts and crafts activities;</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Echoes of Nature, with animal artifacts and pelts, and a finger puppet craft;</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, giving away pens, pencils, and bookmarks;</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">X-Treme Teens, in their Tahoe truck with handouts and interactive fun;</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">M.O.M.I.E.’s TLC, hosting hands-on activities. </span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">This year, <i>Jump Off! </i>turns into a festival with food vendors, hula-hooping, face painting, and all-day music, in addition to the community exhibitors and performances on the main stage. Also, don’t miss out on Watkins Regional Park’s <i>Fall into Fun </i>event from 1 to 4 p.m! Take a train ride around the park as you enjoy the fall foliage, or get into the seasonal spirit with a hayride and a trip to the Nature Center for fall-themed arts and crafts. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div><b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Where:</span></b><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Watkins Regional Park</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;">301 Watkins Drive</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Upper Marlboro, MD</span><br />
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<b>Details:</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1in;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"></span><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></div><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Free parking is available at Watkins Regional Park. All <i>Jump Off! </i>events are free of charge. There is a $5 admission fee for the Watkins Regional Park <i>Fall into Fun </i>event. For additional information or for a schedule of upcoming NCM programs, visit <a href="http://www.ncm.museum/" target="_blank">www.ncm.museum</a>. </span><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-34276286160221245352011-09-20T19:45:00.000-04:002011-09-20T19:45:00.657-04:00Free Admission to Museums on Saturday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2L2HbSMDRfJ7FTX1YO1CqGOQvQjSq86HSLt-dzBOJ0bM6_-HGeqjPQeTfkau4M4PE096RVUa1hxoJyJt85swP9NSw4R1VfpL3F5wW3ZUheY85SDh_zQCibfbhPytUNyfjdKr5kFtPZ1W/s1600/MD2011-Museum-Day-2011-header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2L2HbSMDRfJ7FTX1YO1CqGOQvQjSq86HSLt-dzBOJ0bM6_-HGeqjPQeTfkau4M4PE096RVUa1hxoJyJt85swP9NSw4R1VfpL3F5wW3ZUheY85SDh_zQCibfbhPytUNyfjdKr5kFtPZ1W/s320/MD2011-Museum-Day-2011-header.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This Saturday, September 24, is the annual <a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/"><i>Smithsonian</i> magazine museum day</a>! Of course we all know that the Smithsonian museums are free every day of the year, but on this particular day, many other museums are also offering free admission. You simply have to request a free ticket (limit 2 per household) <a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/ticket/">here</a><i> </i>and then use that ticket on Saturday.<br />
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Here are several of the wonderful local museums that are participating but you can find the entire list <a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/">here</a>.<br />
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<div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Prince George's County:</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"><img height="8" src="http://media.smithsonianmag.com/images/spacer.gif" width="9" /> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Radio_Television_Museum.html">College Park Aviation Museum<br />
Montpelier Mansion<br />
Radio & Television Museum</a> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> </div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Riversdale-House-Museum.html">Riversdale House Museum</a> </span><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Baltimore: </b></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> </div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/American_Visionary_Art_Museum.html">American Visionary Art Museum</a></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/BO_Railroad_Museum.html">B&O Railroad Museum</a></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Baltimore_Museum_of_Art.html">Baltimore Museum of Art</a></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Baltimore-Museum-of-Industry.html"> Baltimore Museum of Industry</a></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Baltimore_Streetcar_Museum.html">Baltimore Streetcar Museum </a></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"> </div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Solomons:<img height="8" src="http://media.smithsonianmag.com/images/spacer.gif" width="9" /></b> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/Calvert_Marine_Museum.html"> Calvert Marine Museum </a></span></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"></div><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-4479423623820726412011-09-14T07:00:00.000-04:002011-09-14T07:00:16.256-04:00Port Towns Day, Saturday, September 17It's the 15th Annual Port Towns Day this Saturday, September 17, from noon until 8pm at Bladensburg Waterfront Park!<br />
<i> </i><br />
We love the Bladensburg Waterfront Park and <a href="http://www.porttowns.org/ptday/index.html">Port Towns Day</a> is always a lot of fun. This year there are TONS of great activities throughout the day.<br />
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There will be great music, Anacostia boat rides very 30 minutes, crafts, games, face painting and even a free mobile roller skate van -- with youth and adult sizes!<br />
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Find all the details <a href="http://www.porttowns.org/ptday/features.html">here</a>.<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-43303136440044824852011-09-13T11:37:00.000-04:002011-09-13T11:37:22.725-04:00The Big Build on Saturday, September 17<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAszZ_CKfp7pzQUOVqUH10uEyaEpTLcM4H4pH_wjinmnk_SNAjMdNmVHM6r_kKHd_WZndw7jaselFpDNp3zhJ_XnQS3b0WaYtVStBvtMhaFM4Aza0nnzTN0nO5UF3q6kqcrzR6rcD3dQH/s1600/family-feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAszZ_CKfp7pzQUOVqUH10uEyaEpTLcM4H4pH_wjinmnk_SNAjMdNmVHM6r_kKHd_WZndw7jaselFpDNp3zhJ_XnQS3b0WaYtVStBvtMhaFM4Aza0nnzTN0nO5UF3q6kqcrzR6rcD3dQH/s1600/family-feature.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="caption">A festival attendee learns how to lay brick.</div><div class="credit">Photo by Museum staff.</div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>We love the free family events at the <a href="http://www.nbm.org/plan-visit/">National Building Museum</a>! Usually they are totally packed, but they are so full of awesomeness that it is definitely worth it.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nbm.org/families-kids/festivals/foba.html">The Big Build: A Hands-on Family Festival of Tools, Trucks and Building Arts</a> sounds amazing!<br />
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It will take place THIS Saturday, September 17 from 10am until 4:30pm at the <a href="http://www.nbm.org/plan-visit/">National Building Museum</a>.<br />
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Here are all the details:<br />
<ul><li><strong>Do it!</strong><br />
Activities for visitors of all ages: drywall finishing, bricklaying, roof thatching, woodworking, surveying, nail driving, and more. </li>
<li><strong>Kids build!</strong><br />
Young architects and builders let their imaginations soar as they design and construct miniature houses of sticks.</li>
<li><strong>Create!</strong><br />
Budding artists and designers can try gilding and stone carving, or create their own mosaics to take home. </li>
<li><strong>Learn!</strong><br />
Talk with plumbers, roofers, architects, landscape designers, conservationists, and other experts in many fields to learn about both traditional and new building techniques and materials.</li>
<li><strong>Play!</strong><br />
Bob the Builder™ will be live and on stage at 11:00 am and 1:30 pm. The youngest builders and construction workers explore the tools of the trade as they sing and dance their way through building projects with Bob the Builder. </li>
<li><strong>Bring your cameras!</strong><br />
Shake hands and take pictures with Bob the Builder at special meet and greet sessions at 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm.</li>
<li>Much, much more! </li>
</ul>FREE. $5 donation suggested. Most appropriate for ages 4–12. Drop-In. Individual registration is not required. Formerly called the Festival of the Building Arts.<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-52414428032993945332011-09-09T13:34:00.000-04:002011-09-09T13:34:26.252-04:00Creating a Family Emergency PlanThis isn't a cheery post about family activities this weekend, rather it's a reminder that we all need to have good, solid family emergency plans in place. I'm writing about it over at <a href="http://www.thedcmoms.com/2011/09/create-a-family-emergency-plan/">The DC Moms</a>. Please go <a href="http://www.thedcmoms.com/2011/09/create-a-family-emergency-plan/">check it out</a> for great ideas and tips.<br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-9456045543181052152011-08-26T10:18:00.000-04:002011-08-26T10:18:18.039-04:00Make a kite for the windy days ahead!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKAbuY6-l5xrpk7lLYIOMTkbFxKt5g6mWN3J6d6nWbSvcXRza6M4nHf341I_O7cS0OMh7jKm-2vpX9Q4Y480xSvnE_x_xq5X8uULYBgjJh8-Zh00-53KCGj4sxsr8qio0qz-zoJgHER5QG/s1600/MP900262302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKAbuY6-l5xrpk7lLYIOMTkbFxKt5g6mWN3J6d6nWbSvcXRza6M4nHf341I_O7cS0OMh7jKm-2vpX9Q4Y480xSvnE_x_xq5X8uULYBgjJh8-Zh00-53KCGj4sxsr8qio0qz-zoJgHER5QG/s320/MP900262302.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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So in case you haven't heard, we're expecting a few gusts of wind this weekend.<br />
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Oh, you've heard? Yeah, her name is Irene.<br />
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I'm obviously not recommending you take your kid on a kite flying adventure during the middle of a hurricane, but maybe you can take advantage of some lingering wind next week to take your new kite out for a spin.<br />
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Oh, you don't have a new kite? Well, then, my friend, head on over to the <a href="http://www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com/home.htm">College Park Aviation Museum</a> on Saturday at 1pm to <a href="http://www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com/Add_Events/Kite_Workshop.htm">build and decorate your own kite</a>!<br />
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The <a href="http://www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com/Add_Events/Kite_Workshop.htm">workshop</a> is $8 per participant but that also includes museum admission.<br />
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You do need to pre-register so call them today: 301-864-6029.<i> </i><br />
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<i>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-89079688234534395592011-08-04T08:20:00.004-04:002011-08-04T08:20:00.855-04:00Ahhhh...SHARKS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDYIWmMYxT0BYqWuD4ZBsGMbZa2Qj8rSG-IJIe2fgoH2ZIRHTgjqboeIFFtX4u-i2a2037EnbdEKxyW2U4TDwrIAKrcMpaECtyCE7mv3C1FQzMIWqQbDwnzpy7XFu4mfUIK7R2edyQBI5/s1600/250px-Rhtyp_u0_white_bg.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmDYIWmMYxT0BYqWuD4ZBsGMbZa2Qj8rSG-IJIe2fgoH2ZIRHTgjqboeIFFtX4u-i2a2037EnbdEKxyW2U4TDwrIAKrcMpaECtyCE7mv3C1FQzMIWqQbDwnzpy7XFu4mfUIK7R2edyQBI5/s400/250px-Rhtyp_u0_white_bg.gif" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Whale shark compared to the size of an average human. Image from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whale_shark">Wikipedia</a></em></div><br />
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One of Lucas's favorite beach activities is hunting for shark teeth. And while I'm sad to say that due to an extremely tight budget we aren't going to the beach this year, he can still hunt for shark teeth thanks to the National Children's Museum Launch Zone!<br />
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Monday, August 8, kicks off their "Ahhh...SHARKS!" program where they will celebrate all things shark! Kids can hunt for shark teeth on a "beach," see and touch real shark jaws and other artifacts and make a craft.<br />
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<em></em>The FREE event (no registration required!) takes place August 8, 9 and 10 from 11am-4pm and Saturday, August 13, from 11am-6pm.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ncm.museum/launch_zone">National Children's Museum Launch Zone</a><br />
112 Waterfront St.<br />
National Harbor, MD 20745<br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-9930469500828634872011-07-28T08:29:00.001-04:002011-07-28T08:29:00.516-04:00Summer Outdoor Movies at the College Park Aviation Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlfZtVK5Mx5Qqht2nLliEpjIJF8D86E0a4uRtnHz6vVBPxCo_ZGf0RHOce6rljel9_YYYFAOFWXaOiGSIDGNG1MN_cLiVpeHjXanWvUKErgoufk_EBrsDspvlO24bAk6ilaF-pNunLDuZ/s1600/220px-Despicable_Me_Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlfZtVK5Mx5Qqht2nLliEpjIJF8D86E0a4uRtnHz6vVBPxCo_ZGf0RHOce6rljel9_YYYFAOFWXaOiGSIDGNG1MN_cLiVpeHjXanWvUKErgoufk_EBrsDspvlO24bAk6ilaF-pNunLDuZ/s320/220px-Despicable_Me_Poster.jpg" t$="true" width="215" /></a></div><br />
The <a href="http://outbyten.blogspot.com/2009/05/college-park-aviation-museum.html">College Park Aviation Museum</a> is hosting free (with museum admission) summer outdoor movies this year. How fun!<br />
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They kick-off this Friday, July 29 at 9pm with <em>Despicable Me. </em>The museum doors re-open at 7pm when there will be fun, hands-on activities, sno cones and popcorn. Then, the movie begins promptly at 9pm (when, hopefully, it will be a tad bit cooler!).<br />
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The series continues on August 19 with <em>How to Train Your Dragon.</em><br />
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Museum admission is (as usual) $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for kids and free for those under 2.<br />
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College Park Aviation Museum<br />
1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Drive<br />
College Park 20740<em></em><br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-821464541260785142011-07-25T08:20:00.002-04:002011-07-25T08:20:00.634-04:00Dive-In Movie @ Ellen Linson Swimming PoolCool off on a hot summer night and watch a movie at the same time! How fun!<br />
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This Saturday, July 30 from 8-11pm you and your family can watch "Life's a Picnic with Yogi Bear!" while splashing or floating in the Ellen Linson Pool!<br />
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Here are the details:<br />
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Ellen Linson Swimming Pool<br />
5211 Paint Branch Parkway, College Park<br />
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$4 for ages 17 and under, $5 ages 18 and up<br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-48872087798137519912011-07-21T08:05:00.000-04:002011-07-21T08:05:00.818-04:00Get Up & Go at the National Children's Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEuNBRsMMH1imgNdY-a7wvEVsgoF-1RadXo3PvMPh3p_8zBM3DTtZdt_QIMwpkl-e-g_Zeg7xRFo-fKeoRNjxkRdYvjKxNrEnC4SOtOPokwI-neG8JxtqQkzzqUus7GVAvCSC-bWcuVkC/s1600/MP900431789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEuNBRsMMH1imgNdY-a7wvEVsgoF-1RadXo3PvMPh3p_8zBM3DTtZdt_QIMwpkl-e-g_Zeg7xRFo-fKeoRNjxkRdYvjKxNrEnC4SOtOPokwI-neG8JxtqQkzzqUus7GVAvCSC-bWcuVkC/s200/MP900431789.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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It seems like my major focus of these dog days of summer is wearing my boys out! They are both high energy and if I don't keep them active then they'll keep themselves active by (literally!) jumping on the furniture and up the walls!<br />
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I can't wait to take them to Get Up & Go at the National Children's Museum Launch Zone. This free event (and no registration required--woohoo!) will feature all kinds of activities to keep your kids moving--from spoon and "egg" (curious to find out why they have that in quotes!) relays to dancing, Simon Says and jumping jack contests throughout the day. Really, is there anything cuter than a group of kids doing jumping jacks?<br />
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There will also be plenty of tips on healthy living. <br />
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Get Up & Go will take place July 25, 27 and 27, and August 1, 3 and 5 from 11am-4pm and on July 30 and August 6 from 11am-6pm. <br />
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<a href="http://www.ncm.museum/launch_zone">National Children's Museum</a><br />
112 Waterfront St.<br />
National Harbor, MD 20745<br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-4767336172958459052011-07-19T08:00:00.002-04:002011-07-19T08:00:13.801-04:00Operation Firefly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5fCOtXVYmR9-Q2HL0API6FvxjEPModt0AZXJc15a7dkr1FY04T1GxO46YuAFK467qSBLnTwJdieQP-xuJ2ys5yz2oEaxLmDYw8akRTXa0sLUTlxvcsSCKlj5oB8dVnfTB4qmRFfHHfHM/s1600/operationfirefly.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5fCOtXVYmR9-Q2HL0API6FvxjEPModt0AZXJc15a7dkr1FY04T1GxO46YuAFK467qSBLnTwJdieQP-xuJ2ys5yz2oEaxLmDYw8akRTXa0sLUTlxvcsSCKlj5oB8dVnfTB4qmRFfHHfHM/s320/operationfirefly.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Some of my fondest childhood memories include catching fireflies in the evenings. Now that Lucas's summer bed time is a little later, observing and catching fireflies has become an almost-nightly ritual for him, too. Although my little lover-of-creatues-great-and-small was horrified to learn that when I was a little girl, I often pulled off the glowing part to make myself a diamond ring!<br />
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I imagine that the scientists behind <a href="http://thechildrenssciencecenter.org/firefly/index.html">Operation Firefly</a> would be horrified as well. They are studying an important question: Are fireflies disappearing? <br />
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And they need your kids to become citizen scientists to help find the answer!<br />
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Head over to the <a href="http://thechildrenssciencecenter.org/firefly/index.html">site</a> to learn more then <a href="http://thechildrenssciencecenter.org/firefly/be.html">register</a> and start observing. And for my future grandkids' sake...I really hope the answer is NO!<br />
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<em>Yeah, and it's probably a good idea, um, not to mention the, er, "diamond" ring idea to your kids. And let's not discuss the idea of "diamond" earrings either!</em><br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-81544888236150143732011-07-13T07:55:00.000-04:002011-07-13T07:55:01.333-04:00Kids Bowl Free All Summer!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRC80Uww04OURdT6Fp2ptDe-QJMYNCL_J8TqZbUPLsFg12n663x6Tha7Po9K-_DF3buDXc6_ik24gzaTUoTx4pelZ7wzkuMEM3LZpeBe2mxOhaafpQLCv1WCDHfVHIwHPnttia1f9fHBKy/s1600/bowling.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRC80Uww04OURdT6Fp2ptDe-QJMYNCL_J8TqZbUPLsFg12n663x6Tha7Po9K-_DF3buDXc6_ik24gzaTUoTx4pelZ7wzkuMEM3LZpeBe2mxOhaafpQLCv1WCDHfVHIwHPnttia1f9fHBKy/s1600/bowling.png" /></a></div>AMF Bowling Centers across the country are offering <a href="http://freebowling.amf.com/?cct_info=1|24978|7829693723|57981882|1996735602|b|7395426762|tc||g|||&cct_ver=3&cct_bk=AMF%20bowling">free bowling for kids</a> all summer long! Sounds like a great way to enjoy a too-steamy-to-go-outside or rainy summer day! I signed up and am getting my coupons via e-mail every Sunday!<br />
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Click <a href="http://freebowling.amf.com/free-registration.aspx">here</a> to find your closest AMF bowling center and register your kids. You'll receive your first coupons via e-mail within 24 hours and additional weekly coupons every Sunday.<br />
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Lots of Prince George's County locations are participating, including: Hyattsville, College Park, Temple Hills and Laurel.<br />
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<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-63598581266010757232011-07-11T09:16:00.000-04:002011-07-11T09:16:01.030-04:00Backyard Campout at the National Children's Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo via <a href="http://www.rei.com/product/731378/rei-camp-dome-2-tent">REI<img border="0" height="213" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmu8HRgHtDFZbsvbNhtvpaGCfptoFEfuQgGeNsjj_8xbRUg706QjLa4qq5EgDs771zQ2b2MiiB7HT7hpWg2S5I8V8pLGYA8zl-AlOmHV2slvMjt2JUR2GJqfG_7dkms8bpkNvbCIOMuZB/s320/tent.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Lucas and Abel, along with a friend, enjoyed their first back-yard campout last week and loved it. I expect lots more camping (both of the backyard and actual forest variety!) in our future.<br />
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I can't wait to take Lucas and Nathaniel to the National Children's Museum Launch Zone's latest hands-on experience for kids: Backyard Campout! They've teamed up with REI to help kids learn all about camping--from checking out camping equipment, crawling into and through tents to exploring deer and bear tracks thanks to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.<br />
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This FREE event takes place July 11, 13, 15, 18, 20 and 22 from 11am-4pm and on July 16 and 23 from 11am-6pm.<br />
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No registration is necessary.<br />
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Are you going on your own outdoor adventure? Head over to REI and download a free <a href="http://www.rei.com/family-adventure">Kids' Adventure Journal</a> for some sneaky learning!<br />
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<a href="http://www.ncm.museum/launch_zone">National Chlidren's Museum Launch Zone</a><br />
112 Waterfront Street <br />
National Harbor, MD 20745<br />
<em>Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5873251103309787686.post-4038271108347276242011-07-08T08:30:00.002-04:002011-07-08T08:30:03.260-04:00Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens - Another great reason to visit!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHnBYo0ns34lFw3_ZOURqR39wV2FI3PknoGV3hu0SSZu36a14oJomT12tdV_58mKvNzf4Nzj8v1LQXnnG54AA-OuXUNRc3mNZvcsy2_bfpNwUiXs6siRen0zQ7WEHtUTR2yg_yUK3RUT9/s1600/keaq-map2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHnBYo0ns34lFw3_ZOURqR39wV2FI3PknoGV3hu0SSZu36a14oJomT12tdV_58mKvNzf4Nzj8v1LQXnnG54AA-OuXUNRc3mNZvcsy2_bfpNwUiXs6siRen0zQ7WEHtUTR2yg_yUK3RUT9/s320/keaq-map2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Thanks to <a href="http://www.our-kids.com/">Our-Kids</a> and <a href="http://www.hikingalong.com/">Hiking Along</a> for giving us another great reason to visit the <a href="http://outbyten.blogspot.com/2009/04/kenilworth-aquatic-gardens.html">Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens</a> this summer: The River Trail!<br />
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Outside of the <a href="http://outbyten.blogspot.com/2009/06/national-arboretum.html">National Arboretum</a>, the Aquatic Gardens are definitely the least-known gem of Northeast DC! I highly recommend a visit!<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.our-kids.com/static/?f=hikingalongjuly11">here</a> to get all the details on the River Trail, which Hiking Along says is perfect for toddlers, kids and strollers (with larger wheels!).<br />
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Original post by Out by Ten. Thanks for reading!</em><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Out by Ten through your feed! Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FamilyFriendlyPrinceGeorges for links to upcoming events!</div>Aimee @ Smiling Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18103618447184051230noreply@blogger.com0